A Paradigm of Midcentury Modern Style

With an emphasis on open floor plans and plentiful windows, Midcentury Modern design established itself as a significant American style in the 1950s. At the end of that decade, esteemed architect Richard Banta created this one-of-a-kind home as his personal residence. In keeping with the “Mid Mod” idiom, spaces emphasize the importance of both form and function, and walls seemingly made of glass blur the lines between indoors and out. From its perch high in the Hollywood Hills, the home benefits from views of trees, rooftops, and sky by day and sparkling city lights by night.

Walled and gated for privacy, the property begins with a peaceful courtyard with colorful green lawn and a placid patio. The spaces between the home’s bright-red supporting stilts and its striking pleated roofline—a signature Banta element—are imbued with clean, iconic style.

The heart of the home is an open, lively, sunlight-filled kitchen and living area featuring handsome wood cabinetry, a helpful center island with a unique top that slides to create counter seating, and hardwood floors that create an earthy warmth.

The two restful bedrooms include en suite baths, each boasting eye-catching textured walls and other distinctive details.

Through floor-to-ceiling sliding glass panels, the bedrooms open directly to a terrace with dramatic vistas.

The home underwent a complete rejuvenation in 2011, and today, the purchase of the property includes approved plans for a 3,300-square-foot two-story expansion, accessed via a floating staircase from the courtyard and providing a new master suite, an auxiliary guest suite, a home theater, a glass-walled great room with a second kitchen, and a wine room—all continuing the classic, irresistible Midcentury Modern style.